Governments across the Middle East have set ambitious waste diversion targets, supported by ongoing discussions around priorities, policies, and practical implementation pathways. 

Saudi Arabia, for example, is aiming to reach close to 90% waste diversion. Such bold visions require more than ambition alone. They demand clear entry points, enabling regulations, practical policies, and economically viable mechanisms. 

The UAE offers another strong example. It has set a target to divert 75% of waste away from landfills by 2030, supported by measurable steps such as expanding treatment infrastructure, implementing phased bans on single-use plastics, and complementing these efforts with the launch of a pilot EPR program, which many in the industry hope to see it expand further.  

Considering the pace of progress, countries in the region face a delicate balancing act: advancing environmental objectives while maintaining affordability and economic competitiveness. This makes it critical to identify an effective access point with a mechanism that accelerates progress without overwhelming governments, systems, or stakeholders. 

Several challenges remain in the region, and addressing them will require a long-term, strategic approach. These include limited source segregation culture, fragmented collection systems, developing recycling markets, and the need for stronger cross-ministerial coordination. These realities do not weaken the case for progress; they simply shape how progress must be designed. 

This is where I believe Deposit Return Systems (DRS) can serve as that access point. But first, it helps to clarify what DRS is and how it relates to EPR. 

Understanding the difference between DRS and EPR 

EPR is a policy framework where producers are legally responsible financially and/or operationally for the collection, recycling, or safe disposal of their products and packaging. It can cover multiple waste streams, including plastics, paper, electronics, tyres, batteries, and more.  

EPR typically requires data reporting, compliance systems, fee structures, and the establishment of Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs). 

DRS, on the other hand, is a targeted instrument within EPR strategies, focused mainly on beverage containers. Consumers pay a small deposit (typically 10–25 cents) at the point of purchase and receive it back when the empty container is returned. Globally, DRS has proven capable of delivering collection rates ranging from 60% to over 90%. 

In simple terms: 

• EPR is the full accountability framework across packaging and products. 

• DRS is a high-performance tool focused on bottles and cans. 

This is exactly why DRS can act as a strong early phase of EPR helping governments test systems, strengthen data collection, build infrastructure, and engage the public. 

How have countries started the journey toward circularity? 

Across the world, governments are looking for scalable and economically viable ways to shift from linear consumption toward circular resource management. While EPR is one of the most effective policy tools for that transition, many countries, particularly emerging markets, remain cautious. 

That hesitation is understandable. Full-scale EPR introduces new regulatory obligations, compliance and reporting requirements, financial implications for producers, and reliance on the readiness of collection and recycling infrastructure. 

This raises an important question: can we rely on source segregation alone? 

From my perspective, the answer is NO, at least not without financial incentives or economic signals that actively drive behavioral change. People respond to convenience, value, and consistency. Without the right mechanisms, segregation risks staying an awareness campaign rather than becoming a lasting system. 

This brings us back to EPR as the long-term destination while acknowledging that starting with full EPR from day one can be difficult. Regulatory complexity and potential economic impacts may slow adoption or create resistance. This is where DRS can offer a practical, measurable starting point if designed strategically. 

Why DRS can be the starting point 

A Deposit Return System offers a simple, visible, and proven entry point. It creates an immediate incentive, generates cleaner material streams, and builds public participation in a way that is both measurable and scalable. 

Germany provides a powerful example. It operates one of the world’s largest and highest-performing deposit return schemes, achieving return rates above 90% for eligible single-use beverage containers. In many jurisdictions, materials covered under DRS are excluded from EPR fee calculations, allowing governments to phase implementation and reduce early financial pressure on producers.  

This offers a valuable insight: EPR does not have to begin everywhere, all at once.  

A regional note: starting with EPR can also work if done gradually 

It is also important to highlight that starting directly with EPR is not “wrong.” Some countries are already taking that step carefully and progressively. 

Jordan is moving seriously towards EPR, beginning with a pilot approach. What stood out is the country’s gradual model starting with packaging materials and focusing on major producers and importers. Jordan also appointed Amman Vision Treatment & Recycling (AVTR), a subsidiary of the Greater Amman Municipality, to act as the Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO). This is a development worth observing, as it may offer an important blueprint for how EPR can be implemented in a practical and staged way in the region. 

Why DRS can be an ideal entry point 

DRS consistently delivers high and measurable recovery rates, offering governments confidence in data accuracy, financial transparency, and consumer participation. 

It also encourages source segregation by directly rewarding correct separation at the household level. With relatively simple infrastructure, reverse vending machines, collection points, logistics networks, and digital reporting platforms, DRS builds behaviors that later support full EPR systems. 

Compared to full EPR, DRS typically faces lower political and economic resistance because it focuses on high-value materials that are easier to communicate, pilot, and scale through proven models. 

Practical Roadmap 

Phase 1: Start with DRS 

• Launch a pilot at city level or scale nationally where readiness allows 

• Focus on high-value materials such as PET and aluminum cans 

• Integrate major retailers and beverage producers early 

• Enable digital refund mechanisms for convenience and adoption 

Phase 2: Expand into Full-Scale EPR 

• Ensure a clear legal framework and engage stakeholders early 

• Establish a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) 

• Strengthen data systems (registries, dashboards, traceability) 

• Expand EPR scope to batteries, e-waste, tires, and other priority streams 

• Enable circular markets by incentivizing recycled content and supporting recyclers through green financing 

At MAF, we are working closely with government entities and partners to help introduce viable systems that accelerate progress toward ambitious diversion targets and strengthen the region’s circular economy ecosystem. 

DRS is not just a recycling tool. It is the gateway to a fully functional circular economy. 

It is a practical and achievable starting point one that can unlock public participation, strengthen the recycling value chain, and accelerate the region’s transition toward a truly circular economy. 

Mohamed Elsherief is the Chief Executive Officer of MAF, a leading provider of waste management, recycling, and environmental solutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.